Unforeseen ULTRA Tradegy and Irresponsible Words

After finishisng my computer assignments last saturday morning, I watched the news about the tragedy outside Philsports Arena (formerly ULTRA) where more than 30, 000 fans of "Wowowee" are lining up and waiting for the 1st anniversary of the program . More than 70 people were trampled and 300 were injured due to stampede.

Personally, I am a fan of ABS -CBN's noontime show "Wowowee." And, I know the program's intention is not to convey sadness but happiness. This unforeseen tradegy is extremely depressing and heartbreaking.

Last Wedensday afternoon, I heard on the radio the irresponsible words of DILG USEC. MARIUS CORPUZ during the press conference of the commitee he headed that was tasked to investigate the ULTRA tragedy. He said that the people were treated like a ANIMALS by the organizers and the offer of few tickets to such a large crowd was like "throwing a small piece of meat to a pack of hungry wolves." It was presumed that his statements were official and part of the 72 hours report.

Mr. Corpuz allegedly accused ABS - CBN and the event organizers were responsible for the tragedy. According to him, he was only telling the “truth.” “The truth hurts but it’s the truth...I was just stating the truth based on the statements of the people who were there. It’s hard to face the truth sometimes but we have to face it. And I’m willing to face the consequences for saying the truth,” he said.

If Mr. Corpuz wants to state his personal opinions, he shoud do it in a proper place, not during the presentation of the finished 72 hours report of the committe.

By the way the fact finding body were composed of his undersecretary Corpuz as head, Marius Corpuz, Mayor Vicente Eusebio of Pasig, the National Capital Regional Police Office chief, Director Vidal Querol, the executive director of the Office of Civil Defense and representatives from the Department of Health and the Bureau of Fire Protection.

I truly believe that it was not all ABS - CBN's fault. I believe that the the security of ULTRA, local government and PNP of Pasig were also responsible.

Let us pray for the souls of the departed and the injured.